CARLOS RECOMMENDS!

THE LIVING ROOM PRESENTS...

RED ALERT! Ready raincoats, umbrellas and working clothes!

Hitting the city at Steam Storm Signal no.5:

"THE RETURN OF THE COMEBACK OF THE NEW AND IMPROVED NEWLY-SCENTED HARING +UBU-L!" at its filthiest and bloodiest LAST 3 SHOWS!

Rain turns red, streets flood vengeance on:
June 12 (Sat), 13 (Sun) and 19 (Sat)

Killings start 8PM @ Carlos Celdran's "The Living Room" Unit 24, 1991 North Syquia Apartments, MH Del Pilar St., Malate, Manila

PANIC! RUSH! Catch Haring Tubul and tell as much people as you can!
Tix at 200! Reserve NOW! PM on Facebook or text 0917-5008-SLE(753)!

Rage the FINAL FILTH WAVE.
'Come Puke, Bleed' with the Sipat Lawin Ensemble for the LAST time.

DARE TO COME. GORE AWAITS.

BAWAL SUMUKO, PUWEDENG SUMUKA!

Learn more about the Alfred Jarry here.
Learn more about Sipat Lawin here.

Oh, and bring your own booze. Yes.
You can drink wine and booze while watching the play.
Because we're cool like dat at The Living Room.

The Living Room
Unit 24, North Syquia Apartments,
1991 MH del Pilar
Malate, Manila

Text 917 5008753 for reservations and tickets

TOKYO CALLING...

Thank you Barredo Bans for sending these links, "War Crimes of Manila". It's an illuminating look into the horrors of The Japanese Imperial Army and the loyalty of the Philippines to the United States in the mid 20th century.

Not to mention, the price we paid for that loyalty.

PART 2
PART 3
PART 4

Not for the faint of heart. Tragic. Heartbreaking for anyone who loves Manila.

Even more heartbreaking on a personal level is America's lack of acknowledgement of this loyalty, and the systematic denial of Japanese society of their horrific war record.

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER...

...AND BETTER THAN NOTHING AT ALL.

Yes, I know this is an insanely delayed post, but thank you all out there who have contributed their information to this article. This is such good news. Click on Sunshine Lichauco de Leon's article on World War II veterans FINALLY getting the compensation rightfully due them in Time.com.

Click here for the article. Many thanks to The United States Embassy in The Philippines for the picture.

CARLOS RECOMMENDS!

I'm totally psyched to be part of this show. I will be biking around Manila this weekend to take photographs for my "talk" on July 1. Hope you all can be there.

BEING THERE 1946: THE LEGACY OF TEODULO PROTOMARTIR
From the Collection of Uro dela Cruz
Show Dates: June 9-July 3,2010
Opening Reception: June 9, Wed,6-9pm

Media contact: Neli Go
+632.8160044
+63917.5874011
Silverlens Gallery neli@silverlensphoto.com

(Above: View of The Metropolitan Theater across Plaza Lawton.)

Teodulo Protomartir was there in 1946 when the Americans gave the Philippines its independence. On July 4, he witnessed the birth of the Philippine Republic. For the first time, the Philippine flag flew alone and free. The Filipino crowd cheering by, planes flying overhead, floats lining the parade…a celebration it was. And Protomartir caught it all on still camera.

Protomartir, the photographer who first brought the 35mm format to the Philippines and actively promoted photography through his photo club and radio show, shows us a monumental event in Philippine history and the Manila that enveloped it. Considered as the Father of Philippine photography, Protomartir captured the city in ruins from the Second World War, its battle wounds and its restoration – scenes we thought only survived in memory. He captures post-war Manila’s architecture and landscape, with Filipinos going about their daily business in familiar places such as Intramuros, Luneta, Ermita and Quiapo as well as in buildings and bridges that are no longer, including the old Sto. Domingo Church, which is one of the six Churches that once stood in Spanish Intramuros. For almost four centuries there stood the home of Our Lady of La Naval before it was bombed in 1941.

(Above: View across the Pasig River to Muelle del Banco and the buildings of Escolta).

Beyond historical evidence, the significance of Protomartir’s images is meaningful. Protomartir hands to the Filipino people cultural treasures that should remain part of Filipino consciousness and memory. Sixty-four years later, we celebrate Protomartir because through him we were there too.

BY: Bea Davila

Complementing this exhibit is a talk on July 1 by Carlos Celdran, celebrated tour guide and authority on Manila’s history. Entitled Placing The Transition, the talk bridges 1946 and 2010 with photos of the places Protomartir photographed as they are today. Uro dela Cruz will also be giving an introduction to Protomartir, the man behind it all. The talk will be on July 1, Thursday, 6-8pm at Silverlens Gallery.

The Images of Being There 1946: The Legacy of Teodulo Protomartir were printed by Billy Mondoñedo.

Being There 1946: The Legacy of Teodulo Protomartir runs simultaneously as Bato Bato Sa Langit by Alfredo Esquillo Jr. at SLab, and Lover Lay Down by Christina Dy at 20Square.

CARLOS RECOMMENDS!

WRITE THIS WAY...

On June 19 (the same day as national hero Jose Rizal’s birthday), join me and Writer’s Block Philippines as we take you through Old Manila’s Walled City and connect you with monuments, milestones, and memories that have inspired the works of generations of authors and artists. Bear with my sick sense of humor and mix it with Writer’s Block Philippines’s authoritative take on travel writing for that one-of-a-kind experience that could help launch your freelance writing career.

* WHERE: Plaza San Luis, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin, and all over Intramuros
* WHEN: June 19, Saturday, 8AM to 5PM
* WHAT: A writing tour featuring Carlos Celdran’s “If these walls could talk” tour, Writer’s Block Philippines’s lectures on writing for travel and arts & culture, and a session on photography by photographer Ena Terol. Lunch and refreshments will also be served
* WHO: Anyone who wants to get a taste of Intramuros and would love to write about it!. (Preferably college level and above)
* HOW MUCH: Ph2,500 per head, inclusive of materials and refreshments*
* MAX. NO. of PARTICIPANTS: 30 pax

*Please feel free to bring extra water and snacks, as well as your own sun protection and other supplies that you deem necessary for a day outdoors.

Log-on to www.writersblockphilippines.com to reserve your slot now!

CARLOS RECOMMENDS!

CHAMPAGNE WISHES and LOBSTER DREAMS..

The Champagne Room of Manila Hotel. Stunning glass trees and old school luxe, complete with a string orchestra and sherbet in between courses. They just don't dine like this no more.

So for one weekend a month till July, join me as we relaunch the institution known as the Champagne Room. We'll dine on heirloom recipes and favorite dishes of famous guests served at The Manila Hotel Champagne Room through it's history. Prepared by their new chef, Christine Zarandin, it promises to be an interesting journey through taste and time.

Manila Hotel, Champagne Room Food Tasting with Carlos Celdran
May 22, 2010

Menu

Moulard Duck Foie Gras au Torchon
On toasted brioche with baby apple and balsamic spun sugar

Smoked Tomato Puree with Crisp Cheddar Souffle
And Basil Pesto

Hearts of Palm Salad
With Endive, Arugula, Herbed Goat Cheese
And Citrus Vinaigrette

Choice of:

“Lobster Visayas”
Oven Roasted Lobster
With Vanilla Coconut Cream Sauce and Mango Relish

Or

Grilled Porterhouse Steak in Criolla marinade
With Creamed Peppercorn Sauce
prepared at your tableside

Mangoes Jubilee
with Home made Lemongrass Ice Cream
and Orange Liquer Sauce Flambe

C.P.Z

Php1,912.00
text Gyranne at 916 3588012 to reserve.

Or go for the whole hog. Go on two of my tours, dine at the Champagne Room, and stay overnight. Click here.

May 22, 2010
June 19-20, 2010
July 3-4, 2010

Meet me at the Tap Room at 7pm.

THE SOLID NORTH...

This June, during the long weekend of Philippine Independence Day (June 12) I will be having a tour of Ilocos called, "The Solid North". A three day and two night jaunt through what I consider to be the best of both Ilocos Norte and Sur with an option for a third day.

The dates will be on June 12 noon (Sat) until June 14 (Mon) in the evening of the Independence Day long weekend. 2 nights, 2 full days of Ilokano architectural walking tours, Ilokano cuisine, cocktails at world heritage sites, Marcos memorabilia and relaxing by the South China Sea.

We'll stay at The Sitio Remedios in Currimao, and visit heritage sites in Vigan, Paoay, Laoag, Sarrat, and Batac. Only 20 spots are available for this tour.

The fee is Php19,770.00. This includes airfare, accomodations, tours, land transportation & dining. Add an extra P2850.00 if wish to extend an extra day until Monday, the 14th of June. Discounts can be given to people who do not wish to fly to Laoag. Details to follow.

Reservations may already be accepted at celdrantours@hotmail.com or call/text 9209092021

ITINERARY: A leisurely r

June 12, Saturday
12:00 noon Depart Manila
1:00 arrive Laoag
2:20 arrive Sitio Remedios and check-in
4:00 Visit Diaz Mansion, Walking tour of Paoay and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Paoay Church
8:00 Cocktails and Dinner at Palayupuy, Currimao.

June 13, Sunday

FREE TIME (Shopping, swimming, relaxing, manicure/massage available)

1:00pm Depart for Vigan
1:30 pm Visit Luna Shrine at Badoc, Ilocos Norte.

2:00pm Magsingal Church at Magsingal, Ilocos Sure

4:00pm Walking Tour of UNESCO World Heritage City of Vigan - Burgos Mansion, Plaza Salcedo, Plaze Burgos, Arzobispo, St. Paul's Cathedral, Crisologo Street

6:30 Cocktails and Dinner at Syquia Mansion

9:00 Departure for Sitio Remedios

June 14, Monday

FREE TIME (optional activities can be arranged: Market visit, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse)

Lunch

12:00pm Departure for Diaz House, Paoay lake and shopping
1:00 Laoag: Ilocos Museum, St. William's Cathedral, sinking belltower, market Lunch at Saramsam restaurant

2:30pm Sarrat: Santa Monica Church

3:30pm Batac: Marcos Mausloeum, Glory's Empanada in front of Plaza, market

5:30pm Paoay Convention Center cocktails.

6:30pm Departure for airport and Manila.

Any questions, reservations, or payments
can be texted at 9209092021 or celdrantours@hotmail.com.

10 THINGS I LEARNED FROM A YOUNG LADY...

A really touching letter written by my niece. She is young and I'm glad she found someone (but more than that), something to believe in. Here's to hoping for a better future for her and for all of us.

10 things I've learned from Gilbert Teodoro

By Angela Celdran Dela Calzada
Today at 3:28pm

As I write this, I am holding back tears. It is not because I don't like Noynoy Aquino, nor because I think Erap being allowed to run again and now come second in this race is a joke, but because about 90% of my voting countrymen allowed a good thing slip through their fingers... yet again.

I read a comment someone posted on the GT fan page that said the Philippines will never cease to be a third world country, because the Filipinos keep thinking like one. It's a tragedy that we repeatedly refuse to acknowledge our islands' limitless potential. By electing the same kind of people over and over again to lead our nation, we are consciously closing our minds and hearts to a new era in politics; where mudslinging and dirty tactics can become obsolete. It really is a shame.

Sour graping is the easiest thing in the world. I could whine, complain and write angry hate notes and messages about how stupid, inane and terrifically idiotic we've now made ourselves out to be. I could congratulate the 12 million Filipinos for damning us to 6 years of shame, blame and online games. There are so many delightfully snarky things I could say that would probably make me feel better. But this time, I won't. Why? Because this time, I've learned how to.

Throughout his campaign, Gilbert Teodoro was often praised by many, both in the public and private sectors, for his brilliance, integrity, capability and positivity. It was due to these qualities that he received support from me and over 3 million Filipinos across the country. Though we did not soar as high as we wanted to, it was in the few feet above the ground that I, and I'm sure my fellow "Gibonians" will concur, learned valuable lessons in politics, leadership and more importantly, in life.

Of these lessons, here are 10 that I will always remember... and treasure.

1. Stop the negativity! Take responsibility! One of the things Gibo was most commended for was his commitment to maintain a positive campaign throughout the period. Not once did he stoop down to sling the mud back, he would only wipe it off his shoes. His focus was on bringing his voice and platform to all areas of the country, to give us the chance to discern and make the decision based on that knowledge. No matter how dirty the arena had become, everyone still wanted to shake his hand.

2. The world keeps spinning and so should we. "Society does change." Gibo said this in one of his sorties, when he talked about addressing the material needs of people today. In an ideal society, people should be content to live within their means and capabilities. But unfortunately, reality begs to differ. The times, they are a changing, Bob Dylan once sang, and it will continue to do so whether we like it or not. The ability to adapt and adjust can no longer be considered an option, for it is fast becoming a necessity.

3. It's not the what. It's the how. Another thing Gibo was often praised for was his practical take on traditional and modern day issues. His platform attracted many because his proposed policies and solutions seemed "doable". In fact, there were no promises made to put an end to the problems that have been haunting our country for decades, if not centuries. After all, an idea is one thing, but its execution is another entirely.

4. Not all bad grass come from the same seed. We civilians have this idea that all government officials are the same: corrupt, self-serving and power hungry. But after listening to Gibo speak in one of his sorties about how corruption can be eased through incentives and rewards for good behavior, I realized that there still are public servants who actually WANT to serve the public.

5. Shit happens. But you can always clean it up. Throughout his stint as Secretary of National Defense happened two tragedies: the Typhoon Ketsana and Maguindanao massacre. His response to these disasters, while not perfect, was still commended by those who actually knew what the heck was going on. Even during the campaign, when many a time was he frowned upon for these unfortunate events, not once did I hear him point the finger at other people. What I admire is that he took responsibility for his actions and did what was best at the time to appease each situation.

6. There are many things we can compromise. Integrity is not one of them. Being a member of one of the most powerful political machineries in the country, it would have been easy to engage in the crossfire that happened between several of the candidates. Everyone wondered why he refused to denounce his ties to PGMA, even though people were saying they would vote for him if he would. Why not compromise, I, like many other Filipinos thought? Then, during one of his sorties, I heard him say that there is nothing on earth that is worth ruining his father's name, and his son's future. Right then and there, I understood.

7. Freedom, contrary to its root word, is not always free. So don't waste it. We are the only fully democratic country in our region, yet, we are one of the least progressive. This is something I've heard him stress over in many talks and forums. We actually have the right to say when we want change and when we've had enough. Sometimes, we don't appreciate how lucky we are, that we have the freedom of speech, the freedom to choose our religion and elect our leaders. It's up to us to make decisions for our future and the betterment of country. And luckily, it will ALWAYS be up to us.

8. Peace, on the other hand, is always free. So please make use of it. One of the main points of Gibo's platform was, and always will be, peace and unity among our 7,000++ islands. We are a diverse archipelago, rich in culture and heritage, and that is something we should be proud of, not hate. We often hear of the problems in other poor countries when in fact, we have the very same problems right next door. Though it is a very popular answer among aspiring beauty queens, that doesn't make it any less crucial. Peace should always be a priority in this, and any country.

9. The importance of a legacy. Of all the times I've heard him address the people's fear of him playing a puppet to PGMA, Gibo always says one thing: that he is still young. What he meant by this was that if he had been given the chance to lead, after his 6 years in office, he would still have many years to show face for; which he would not jeopardize for his sake, and more importantly, for his family's sake. After all, we can think of many ways to gain money and power, but we only have ONE life to live and ONE legacy to leave.

And last...

10. Love our country. This may be the simplest lesson, but nonetheless, it was something I deeply needed to relearn. In this day and age, we are more exposed to the outside world than ever. I'm not scared to admit that there have been a number of times when I felt ashamed of being a Filipino, in a country so afraid of change and innovation. Ashamed of our penchant for favoring people for who they know over who they are. Ashamed of our blatant backwardness, especially when compared to our neighboring countries. But the moment I heard Gibo speak about his vision for the country stirred in me a feeling of patriotism that I never thought I had. In the few months that I displayed my belief in his candidacy; I had also, willingly, displayed my belief in my country.

Despite the grief I feel for the outcome of this year's elections, strangely, I cannot escape the feeling of hope and pride that continues to swell inside me. Looking through the facebook pages of fellow "Gibonians", it's easy to see that there was something new, exciting and inspiring that was born out of all this. And I know that whatever was awakened in all of us is something that cannot be easily abandoned, or forgotten.

Though he's said before that this is the last time he expects to run for public office, I sincerely hope that for once, he said something he didn't mean. I hope, no, I insist that he runs again in 2016, because he owes all of us the opportunity to see his platform, ideas and vision become our reality. Throughout his campaign, we were introduced to a new breed of politics. The Green Team volunteers were NEVER paid.

So Mr. Teodoro, if you ever get to read this, please consider giving us the chance to vote for you again. That is the only payment I seek.

Oh yeah, and thanks for the lessons. :-)

WHEE! WHEE! WHEE!

Awexome. I'm on Al-Jazeera. Talking to Veronica Pedrosa about Imelda. She was on my Imelda just last Thursday. Wow. These guys edit/work fast. Catch her as she covers the Philippine elections these next few days on Al-Jazeera.